The Dearborn Observatory is open for public observing with the historic 18.5" refracting telescope every Friday night from 8-10 pm.
The Friday sessions are open to anyone and there are two options for visiting:
8 to 9pm: One hour session by reservation only.
9 to 10pm: Walk-ins are welcome but space in the dome is limited. Therefore, there is no guarantee of getting to use the telescope if it is very crowded.
There is no charge for these Friday night events; however, a refundable deposit is required for groups of 10 or more. Additionally, the Dearborn Observatory is available for private viewing events on other evenings. Call the Astronomy Department at (847) 491-7650 for more information or to place reservations. Unfortunately, the Dearborn is NOT ADA-accessible. Several staircases must be climbed in order to reach the telescope.